When these animals had retired from the field, the old but not very humane or merciful custom of cockfighting was introduced, and a main of cocks was fought, the chances of which were for a long time precarious until at length death decided the victory, and the survivor was borne off triumphant. Then succeeded the motley mirth of footracing, wheelbarrow races, or rather stumbling, for the heroes who had charge of these wooden conveyances were blindfolded to give them a fairer chance of effecting by accident that which they had no visible means of doing. Jumping in sacks came next in order, and a venerable host gave the calculated complement of calico for a “chemise” to be run for by three vestals of the current order. This was a very warm contest, and was obstinately kept up as long as the fair competitors could keep themselves up. But this not being practicable nor altogether answerable to the wishes of the spectators, the sacks were soon disburthened of their fair contents and the prize awarded. The day’s proceedings finished up with the carrying of the good host on the shoulders of some spectators to his own door, when he “shouted” for his carriers with a copious libation of the best West Indian product. THE FIRST RACE MEETING AT SYDNEY. The officers of the 73rd Regiment, together with many of the better class of people in Governor Macquarie’s reign, were evidently keen on racing, for they announced in the “Gazette” that the Sydney races were to take place in October (1810) for three fifty-guinea plates. A track was prepared on what is now known as Hyde Park. Chatting with some of the old hands years ago I was told that the stand was placed close by what is now the junction of Market and Elizabeth Streets, the straight being along the latter thoroughfare from Park Street. The attendance was the largest ever collected in the colony. The winners were:— Subscribers’ Plate of fifty guineas Chase Ladies’ Cup, fifty guineas Chase Magistrate’s Purse, fifty guineas Scratch The second Sydney race meeting occupied August 12th, 14th and 16th, 1811, on the Hyde Park track. On the first day the Subscription Plate of fifty guineas was won by Mr. Bent’s ch. g. Matchem, while Captain Ritchie’s Cheviot won the Two-year-old Sweepstakes. Here we have the interesting fact of thoroughbreds being produced, yet not a word as to their sires or dams. On the second day the Ladies’ Cup of fifty guineas was won by Colonel O’Connel’s Carlo and the presentation to the winner was made by Mrs. Macquarie. A pony race was won by Mrs. James Cox’s Fidget. On the third day the Magistrate’s Plate was won by Mr. William’s Strawberry.